Reviews of graphic novels and comic book collections every Tuesday and Thursday.


Please Note: All Amazon prices are current the day of the review. Prices may change without notice.

 
Barney and the Blue Note by Loustal-Paringaux
In the previous review, I mentioned how a book that introduced a new subject to me was always welcome, despite any other flaws it might have. On the other hand, a book with some editorial misses along with a tired subject can quickly become tiresome. Unfortunately, Barney and the Blue Note (1988, Fantagraphics Books, Amazon listing) is such a book.

I had high expectations for the book. A over-sized European comic from the late-80s about jazz, Barney and the Blue Note looked to have a smart story and good art. Upon reading it though, I realized that it is a trite story that falls on the cliches about jazz artists: they are loners, lotharios, and self-destructive drug users. And with art that looks unfinished and an inconsistent narrative voice that muddles the story, the books isn't able to maintain any momentum to overcome the plot.

For a more interesting graphical take on jazz musicians and drug use, read Steve Lafler's Bughouse (reviewed January 16, 2003) in which the characters are all insects.

Barney and the Blue Note 2 stars (out of 5)
posted by Sean McGurr at 8:41 AM